Safe Handling of Tank Containers - ITCO

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet No 30
with a maximum superimposed load of 192,000 kg may have up to five units
loaded on top, unless a European unit is placed directly above it or third in
the stack, in which case the stack height would be limited to three or four
above it respectively.
12.3 Tank Container Width
12.3.1 Swap tanks are generally wider than ISO tank containers. However the
designs of these two types of tank container are difficult to distinguish,
especially when seen from a distance. The consequence of attempting to
load a swap tank into a standard ISO cell guide may result in the container
becoming jammed.
12.3.2 The additional width of the swap tank may also prevent it from being stowed
in lower positions adjacent to other ISO containers as the spacing of the
deck fittings are generally too close to be able to accommodate the
additional width. Swap tanks may require stowing where there are no
adjacent containers.
12.3.3 Because of the width and the possible reduced stacking capabilities,
shippers who wish to move laden or empty swap tanks on deep sea routes
must confirm that the ship is able to carry them. Furthermore the ship’s
planner must be advised when the container “slot” is booked and the
container delivered to the terminal.
12.4 Segregation
12.4.1 Containers, including tank containers, carrying dangerous goods shall be
segregated in line with the IMDG Code.
12.4.2 Containers carrying a cargo or its vapour that could adversely affect other
susceptible cargoes should be stowed in separate holds.
12.5 Emergency Response and Clean Up
12.5.1 In the most severe case the pressure vessel could develop a leak or be
punctured.
12.5.2 Such a release could represent a significant emergency response challenge
so consideration must be given to the stowage location.
12.5.3 A commodity that is environmentally hazardous or a hazardous polluting
substance is probably best stowed below deck where leaks or discharges
can be contained within the hold of the ship. However it must be recognised
that this may also present a hazard to the crew and/or emergency services
personnel.
12.5.4 Commodities that are extremely difficult to clean-up (for example latex)
should be stowed on deck.
12.5.5 Cryogenic liquids should never be stowed below deck.
12.5.6 Any bulk liquid released into the hold regardless of cargo carried may
produce a significant clean-up challenge.
12.5.7 The guidance in dealing with release, spillage, fire or exposure to dangerous
goods given in IMO’s Emergency Response Procedures for Ships Carrying
Dangerous Goods (EmS) and Medical First Aid Guide for Ships (MFAG)
should also be followed.
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